Somerset County, NJ demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
349,846
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$140,374/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
133,639
0.6% year-over-year change

Somerset County population

How many people live in Somerset County

Somerset County is home to 349,846 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Somerset County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
349,846
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
172,416
Female
50.7%
177,430
Value Percent YoY change
Male 172,416 49.3% 1.1%
Female 177,430 50.7% 1.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Somerset County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.7% of the population, while another 29.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
24.7%
45 to 64
29.1%
Over 65
17%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 59,220 16.9% -0.1%
15 to 24 42,744 12.2% 0.6%
25 to 44 86,500 24.7% 2.2%
45 to 64 101,845 29.1% -0.6%
Over 65 59,537 17% 3.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Somerset County, 70.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 18.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 51.6% of locals are Caucasian, 9.5% are African American and 19.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
70.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
18.4%
Non-citizens
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 245,994 70.3% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 64,550 18.4% 2.1%
Non-citizens 39,302 11.2% 3.5%
Racial breakdown
White
51.6%
Black or African American
9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
19.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.4%
Other
8.4%
Value Percent
White 180,538 51.6%
Black or African American 33,390 9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,478 0.4%
Asian 68,731 19.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 30 0%
Two or more races 36,420 10.4%
Other 29,259 8.4%

Households in Somerset County

A peek inside Somerset County households

Somerset County has 130,802 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.5% are families, while the remaining 28.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
130,802
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
37,295
Family households
93,507
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 37,295 28.5% -0.7%
Family households 93,507 71.5% 1.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Somerset County

The housing landscape of Somerset County

Somerset County's housing consists of 133,639 units, with 57.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 14.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
133,639
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 77,280 57.8%
1 unit, attached 19,373 14.5%
2 units 6,992 5.2%
3 or 4 units 6,057 4.5%
5 to 9 units 6,751 5%
10 to 19 units 6,831 5.1%
20 to 49 units 3,898 2.9%
50 or more units 6,193 4.6%
Mobile home 243 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,699
123.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Somerset County

In Somerset County, the median construction year is 1982. About 9.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,493 9.4% -2.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 6,071 4.5% -4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 13,777 10.3% -0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 17,188 12.9% 1.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,454 9.3% 0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 26,355 19.7% -1.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 22,503 16.8% -0.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12,964 9.7% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,135 6.1% 7.0%
Built in 2020 or later 1,699 1.3% 123.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Somerset County occupancy rates

Out of the 130,802 occupied housing units in Somerset County, 74.3% are owner-occupied, while 25.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
130,802
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33,615
Owner occupied
97,187
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33,615 25.7% 1.7%
Owner occupied 97,187 74.3% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
2.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Somerset County housing costs

Housing costs in Somerset County come to a median of $2,298 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,033.

Median housing costs per month
$2,298/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Somerset County
$2,033/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Somerset County

Somerset County education at a glance

About 22.5% of the population in Somerset County went to high school, while 14.1% pursued college studies. Another 5.8% earned an associate degree and 30.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 24.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,895 2.9% 1.7%
High school diploma 62,032 22.5% -0.7%
College diploma 38,971 14.1% 1.9%
Associate degree 16,131 5.8% -0.5%
Bachelor's degree 83,915 30.4% 2.0%
Graduate degree 66,858 24.2% 2.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Somerset County

How much people earn in Somerset County

The average annual household income in Somerset County was $191,543 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $140,374, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Somerset County
$191,543/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Somerset County
$140,374/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Somerset County income by age

In Somerset County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $148,561. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $175,782 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $72,361, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $92,278 in earnings. Overall, 94.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $72,361 27.9%
25 - 44 $148,561 5.3%
45 - 64 $175,782 3.0%
Over 65 $92,278 3.5%
Above poverty level
325,012
Below poverty level
18,430
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 325,012 94.6% 1.1%
Below poverty level 18,430 5.4% -1.0%

Employment in Somerset County

Workforce and job types in Somerset County

The job market in Somerset County is powered by 190,550 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 71.8% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
190,550
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
164,024
Blue collar
26,526
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 164,024 86.1% 1.6%
Blue collar 26,526 13.9% 3.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
71.8%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,883 8.9% 3.3%
Private companies 136,737 71.8% 1.1%
Governmental workers 22,687 11.9% 2.8%
Not for profit companies 14,243 7.5% 4.6%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Somerset County stands at 4.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Somerset County

How people get around in Somerset County

In Somerset County, the average commute time is 31 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
31 min
-0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 131,013 70.3% -0.6%
Taxicab 1,054 0.6% -9.8%
Bus or trolleybus 1,350 0.7% -11.7%
Subway or elevated 1,114 0.6% N/A
Railroad 3,770 2% -5.2%
Motorcycle 9 0% -10.0%
Bicycle 270 0.1% -2.9%
Walk 2,200 1.2% -7.2%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Somerset County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
07920 28,753 10,770 $192,857 $285,711
07921 7,700 3,942 $123,104 $157,386
07924 7,713 2,610 $236,042 $330,463
07059 16,811 5,597 $212,479 $304,191
07060 48,363 14,951 $78,602 $100,081
07063 14,235 3,931 $93,304 $106,796
07931 2,985 1,191 $201,078 $328,980
07934 1,293 514 $245,429 $346,457
07939 322 0 $0 $0
07069 6,623 2,412 $171,705 $238,798

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FAQs about Somerset County demographics 

What is the total population of Somerset County?

Somerset County has a total population of 349,846 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Somerset County?

The gender ratio in Somerset County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (172,416 residents)
  • 50.7% females (177,430 residents)

What is the median age in Somerset County?

The median age in Somerset County is 41.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Somerset County?

The age distribution in Somerset County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (59,220 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (42,744 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.7% (86,500 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.1% (101,845 residents)
  • Over 65: 17% (59,537 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Somerset County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Somerset County is as follows:
  • White: 51.6% (180,538 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.5% (33,390 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (1,478 residents)
  • Asian: 19.6% (68,731 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (30 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.4% (36,420 residents)
  • Other: 8.4% (29,259 residents)

What percentage of the population in Somerset County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 70.3% of the population in Somerset County.

How many housing units are there in Somerset County?

There are 133,639 housing units in Somerset County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Somerset County and what is the average household size?

Somerset County has a total of 130,802 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Somerset County?

Somerset County has a median household income of $140,374, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Somerset County?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Somerset County, with a workforce of 190,550 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.1% (164,024 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.9% (26,526 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (16,883 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.8% (136,737 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (22,687 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (14,243 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025